Impact of Banana Production on Smallholder Farmers' Livelihoods in Missenyi District, Tanzania

Banana farming plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and supporting the livelihoods of many farmers in developing countries. Therefore, this study explores the effects of banana production on the livelihood of smallholder farmers in Missenyi District, Bukoba, Tanzania. The study employed a cross-sectional research design to collect data from four villages: Bunazi, Nsunga, Kyaka, Mabuye and Kassambya. Additionally, Multiple Linear Regression models were used to estimate the effects of banana production on household income. The results show that factors such as gender, marital status, household size, capital investment, and market access significantly influence income from banana farming. These results suggest that improving access to markets and financial resources, as well as addressing gender disparities, can enhance the economic well-being of banana farmers in the region. The study recommends that targeted interventions, including the development of infrastructure, support for capital investment, and the promotion of gender equity, are essential for increasing productivity and income among smallholder banana farmers in Missenyi District.